Tulsa, Oklahoma -
Mayor Dewey Bartlett and Pastor Melvin Cooper gave the public a sneak peek of EduRec Saturday. It is a recreational facility that requires good grades for entry and aims to keep children off the street.
"It's just not hanging around the corner watching the girls and the boys go by," said Mayor Bartlett. "They're hanging around here and learning something in a very good, structured, good environment."
Faith leaders came together over the course of five years to refurbish a north Tulsa school into the 15 acre facility. It aims to help 1,000 children per day.
The facility offers an arcade, dining hall, computer lab, gym, outdoor play areas, football field, bumper cars, mini golf, and more.
Hand-painted murals color the hallway walls, as well.
"It's really neat. I wonder how, it looks like it's 3D," said one nine-year-old touring the facility.
"We feel what we're going to offer at EduRec is going to really have an impact on young people's lives," said Pastor Cooper. His mural is painted on the wall, with a Bible in Hand. He is dressed as "Super Coop," spreading a message of faith and inspiration to young people.
The facility requires students maintain good grades. It will cost $2 at the door. The facility opens March 30th.
